$32K in “Holiday Hugs” Given to 10 HIV/AIDS Nonprofits

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It’s that time of the year! The Campbell Foundation has given out its annual “Holiday Hugs,” which are end-of-the-year grants awarded to HIV/AIDS service organizations to use as they see fit. This year, nine Florida-based nonprofits each received a $3,000 grant and a 10th group, Basic NWFL, was awarded $5,000.

Based in Fort Lauderdale, The Campbell Foundation was established in 1995 to help fund laboratory-based nontraditional HIV research. In 2018, the foundation awarded $338,000 for such research, according to a Campbell Foundation press release. At the end of each year, it also gives out Holiday Hugs to local groups that directly serve the HIV community.

For example, when Hurricane Michael tore through Florida’s panhandle, it damaged AIDS service organization Basic NWFL, leaving it without a home. A $5,000 Holiday Hug will help the group recover.

“This funding goes a long way when people truly understand what we are experiencing, and it teaches us to be humble and know that we are blessed by you,” said Basic NWFL executive director Valerie Mincey in the press release.

“While funding HIV research has been our main focus since 1995,” added Campbell Foundation trustee Bill Venuti, “we also realize there is a significant need in our community for critical social services including housing, food, education and counseling. This is especially true today as nonprofits across the spectrum struggle with obtaining donations.”